Top Hiking Trails in Southern California

Spring hikes are just one of the reasons why we love living in Southern California, so we rounded up the best hikes in the region just for you. What’s your favorite place to stride forward?

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of our favorite go-to hikes, thanks to its picturesque scenery full of springtime wildflowers and ocean breeze that highlight the beauty that surrounds us in Southern California. A three-mile hike, Torrey Pines takes a little less than an hour and a half to complete from start to finish. We love packing a swimsuit and a beach towel, and swimming in the ocean for a refreshing post-hike dip.
Mission Trails Regional Parks, nestled by rugged hills and open areas, features a dog friendly hike, which makes it a fun adventure for you and your four-legged best friend. The route’s “Stairway to Heaven,” or wooden steps to the best view of the city, take you to the park’s highest peak where you can take in panoramic views of San Diego.
Lake Poway Recreation Area is home to Mt. Woodson or best-known as the “Potato Chip Rock” hike in San Diego’s Poway community. A challenging hike, Mt. Woodson is over six miles in distance, perfect for Instagram photo opportunities with friends. A full-body workout, Mt. Woodson’s steep uphill hike offers stunning views of the city and guaranteed Instagram double taps.

Three Sisters Falls, a 4-mile hike, is the perfect detour on the way to Julian, home of the best apple pies. San Diego adventurers are sure to burn off a little apple pie on this challenging hike. We definitely recommend designated hiking shoes for this trail’s rugged terrain. One of the few hikes in San Diego to feature a waterfall, Three Sisters Falls is perfect for any sunny spring day.

Hollyridge Trail aka the Hollywood Sign Hike, is one of the most iconic hikes in Los Angeles and all of Southern California. Who knew you can do a bit more than see the white Hollywood letters from a distance? Anyone taking a weekend trip to the City of Angels can hike up to the Hollywood sign letters near the Griffith Observatory. Just a heads up, the hike’s peak has full security so you can’t necessarily access the letters.

We hope you enjoying hiking your way through Southern California. Don’t forget to use #iTANfan throughout your outdoor adventures.